Howard Becker - Oral History of Criminology

Introduction

This tutorial provides an overview of key concepts discussed by Howard S. Becker in the oral history of criminology, as presented in his interview with Brendan Dooley. It explores the sociology of deviance, symbolic interactionism, and qualitative research methods. Understanding these concepts will enhance your grasp of criminology and its applications in social sciences.

Step 1: Understand the Sociology of Deviance

• Definition: Sociology of deviance examines behaviors that violate societal norms.
• Key Concepts:
  • Labeling Theory: How society labels individuals as deviant can influence their self-identity and behavior.
  • Symbolic Interactionism: Focuses on the meanings individuals ascribe to their social interactions and how these meanings shape behavior.

Practical Tip: Explore case studies on labeling to see how different groups respond to being labeled as deviant.

Step 2: Explore Becker's Influence on Criminology

• Becker's Contributions:
  • His work in "The Outsiders" discusses how societal reactions influence the deviance of groups, particularly in the context of marijuana use and music culture.
  • Emphasizes qualitative research methods over quantitative approaches in understanding social phenomena.

Common Pitfall: Avoid relying solely on statistics; consider the qualitative experiences that shape individual behaviors and societal reactions.

Step 3: Familiarize Yourself with Key Figures and Concepts

• Erving Goffman: Known for his work on stigma and identity, which complements Becker's theories.
• Micro vs. Macro Approaches:
  • Micro: Focuses on individual or small group interactions.
  • Macro: Looks at larger societal structures and their impact on behavior.

Practical Tip: Read Goffman’s works to gain insight into stigma and its role in deviance.

Step 4: Understand the Role of Institutional Review Boards

• Purpose: IRBs oversee research involving human subjects to ensure ethical standards.
• Importance in Qualitative Research: Becker highlights the necessity of ethical considerations in research, particularly in studying marginalized groups.

Actionable Step: Familiarize yourself with your local IRB guidelines if you plan to conduct research in this field.

Conclusion

Howard Becker's insights into the sociology of deviance and qualitative research are invaluable for understanding criminology. By exploring labeling theory, the impact of societal reactions, and ethical considerations in research, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of deviant behavior. As a next step, consider reading Becker's "The Outsiders" or Goffman's works to enrich your knowledge further.